The historic town of Kilmallock and the wider Limerick community were deeply honoured to host the National Famine Commemoration 2025 on Saturday 17 May.
President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins officiated at the commemoration, which featured military honours and a solemn wreath-laying ceremony.
Limerick City and County Council were delighted to work with the Department of Arts, Culture, Communication, Sport and Media and the Kilmallock community to help successfully deliver this event.
The commemoration brought together residents, dignitaries, and visitors to remember and reflect on one of the most tragic periods in Irish history.
Kilmallock Famine Memorial Park
The National Famine Commemoration 2025 was held at the Kilmallock Famine Memorial Park, a site of profound historical significance, located within the Kilmallock Union Workhouse complex. The local community in Kilmallock established the Park on the grounds of a mass Famine grave. Then President of Ireland Mary McAleese officially opened the park in June 1999. It serves as a poignant reminder of those who perished or emigrated during An Gorta Mór.
A plaque at the entrance to the park carries the hopeful message: ‘Never again should a people starve in a world of plenty.’
Minister for Arts, Culture, Communications, Media and Sport, and Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee, Patrick O’Donovan spoke at the event highlighting:
"This is the first time that the National Famine Commemoration has taken place in Limerick. We come here today to honour and remember all those who suffered, perished and emigrated during or because of the Great Irish Famine. It is very fitting that the event is being held here in the grounds of Kilmallock Workhouse and next to the graveyard where so many of our forebears who died during this time, were laid to rest in a mass grave, neighbour with neighbour.”
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, delivered the welcoming address. Following the commemoration, he commented:
“Today, we remember a period in our history that changed Ireland forever, even up to this day. This National Famine Commemoration being hosted in Kilmallock has represented an opportunity for us in Limerick to pause, reflect and take time to remember our past and the journey to today. Limerick was not spared during the Great Famine. Indeed, it was one of the counties most acutely affected by it. As we commemorate all who died during that time, we now have an opportunity to reflect on what we have achieved as a nation. We are grateful to all who have worked tirelessly to ensure this event's success, particularly the dedicated staff of Limerick City and County Council, the local community in Kilmallock and our partners at the Department."
Príomh Comhairleoir, Cllr Dan McSweeney added:
"The commemoration was a powerful reminder of our shared history and the importance of remembering those who came before us. The efforts of the Kilmallock community in establishing the memorial park are commendable, and their dedication ensures that the legacy of those who suffered during the Famine will never be forgotten."
Dr. Pat Daly, Director General at Limerick City and County Council, commented on hosting such an event in Limerick:
“It was an honour for Limerick to host the 2025 National Famine Commemoration in Kilmallock. The ceremony was a deeply moving tribute to those who suffered and perished during An Górta Mór. I want to thank all who attended and contributed to this solemn occasion, particularly our own Culture team. The presence of so many people, from across Ireland and beyond, reflected the enduring importance of continuing to remember the strength of community that defines us.”
Damien Brady, Chair of Limerick City and County Council National Famine Commemoration Steering Group thanked all who played a part in delivering this significant occasion:
“Hosting this state event has been a great honour for Limerick. Its success was due to the collaborative efforts of the Department, Limerick City & County Council and crucially the Local Community in Kilmallock.”
Limerick City and County Council extends its heartfelt gratitude to all staff members who contributed to the planning and execution of this significant national event. Their dedication and hard work have ensured that the memory of those who suffered during the Great Famine was honoured with the dignity and respect they deserve.